25 High-Protein Breakfasts And Desserts For When You Want Something Sweet And Satisfying

Why not both?

Life's too short to skip breakfast or dessert — and we're big fans of the high-protein variety.

High-protein breakfast and dessert recipes are not only delicious but are also extra satisfying because they typically contain at least one protein-rich component that can help keep you fuller longer. 

Below, take your pick from sweet or salty, creamy or crunchy, sweet treats or afternoon snacks. These easy yet mouthwatering options will become a new favorite in your morning or evening routine. (Or both!)

1. Cacao Chia Pudding

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Chocolate for breakfast, anyone? This simple and rich cacao chia pudding is hearty, healthy, and delicious. If you’re not a fan of almond butter and coconuts as a topping, try adding bananas instead.

Recipe: Cacao Chia Pudding I Shop The Recipe

2. Peanut Butter Energy Bites

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If you’re in the mood for something creamy but crunchy and sweet but salty, then these peanut butter energy bites are exactly what you’re looking for. 

Recipe: Peanut Butter Energy Bites I Shop The Recipe

3. Mixed Berry Snack-Sized Smoothie

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Very berry delicious indeed, this easy, three-ingredient Greek yogurt–based smoothie is a refreshing afternoon snack that’s both energizing and light. 

Recipe: Mixed Berry Snack-Sized Smoothie I Shop The Recipe

4. Gingerbread Pancakes

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The batter has a secret, protein-rich ingredient of (wait for it...) cottage cheese. Although that might sound odd, you can't taste it in the final product — it just adds to the fluffy texture.

Recipe: Gingerbread Pancakes I Shop The Recipe

5. Power Protein Brownies

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These fudgy black bean brownies are a protein-packed treat perfect for anyone who prefers desserts that are only slightly sweet. Use low-sodium beans (washed very thoroughly) for a creamier texture. 

Recipe: Power Protein Brownies I Shop The Recipe

6. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie

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The heavenly combo of chocolate and peanut butter satisfies your taste buds in this perfect protein-rich smoothie. Don’t like peanut butter? Swap out with almond butter instead. 

Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie I Shop The Recipe

7. Protein-Packed Breakfast Bars

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A pick 'n' mix, but in the form of breakfast bars that can double as snacks or desserts. With four different kinds of fillings coated in a golden-brown base of flax, quinoa, and oats, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a chocolate or berry lover.

Recipe: Protein-Packed Breakfast Bars I Shop The Recipe

8. Make-Ahead Mixed Berry Parfait

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Greek yogurt to the rescue! This three-ingredient parfait is a light and tangy treat that can be made ahead for a quick treat that can last up to two days.

Recipe: Make-Ahead Mixed Berry Parfait I Shop The Recipe

9. Chocolate Banana Lollipops

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Soft bananas coated in crunchy chocolate, these lollipops are a healthy treat that can be jazzed up with sprinkles or chocolate chips. If you use toothpicks instead of ice pop sticks, you can also make a mini version of the snack!

 Recipe: Chocolate Banana Lollipops I Shop The Recipe

10. Carrot Cake Muffins

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These moist, sweet carrot cake muffins are a fluffy, hearty snack that can easily be made in under 30 minutes. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, try buttermilk as a substitute — though the latter has less protein.

Recipe: Carrot Cake Muffins I Shop The Recipe

11. Strawberry Banana Chia Seed Pudding

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This creamy and delicious pudding is a filling yet light treat that can be snacked on anytime during the day. If you’re not a fan of bananas, swap them out for kiwis or berries.

Recipe: Strawberry Banana Chia Seed Pudding I Shop The Recipe

12. Chocolate Avocado Pudding

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This velvety pudding is an easy and tasty snack that can be eaten warm and gooey or refreshingly chilled. Add bananas to make it even richer and creamier. 

Recipe: Chocolate Avocado Pudding I Shop The Recipe

13. Peanut Butter Ice Cream

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Homemade ice cream isn’t as challenging as it seems. Try out this filling peanut butter ice cream that makes the perfect sweet and salty summer treat. If you don’t have a food processor, just use a potato masher to smash the bananas. 

Recipe: Peanut Butter Ice Cream I Shop The Recipe

14. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Overnight Oats

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The holy trifecta of chocolate, banana, and oats makes for a tasty and satisfying breakfast meal. You can mix in chia seeds for even more protein, and if the nutmeg is overpowering, add some brown sugar to balance. 

Recipe: Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Overnight Oats I Shop The Recipe

15. Banana Oat Muffins

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These simple and classy banana oat muffins are a fluffy and hearty breakfast treat that’s best served warm. Why not sprinkle a mix of crushed nuts on top before baking? 

Recipe: Banana Oat Muffins I Shop The Recipe

16. Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

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These chewy but crunchy oatmeal cookies are a classic and comforting treat that’s best served warm and fresh out of the oven.

Recipe: Chewy Oatmeal Cookies I Shop The Recipe

17. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars

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Crispy apples and crunchy oatmeal with a bit of spicy cinnamon, these bars are a simple yet satisfying snack that can be grabbed for an on-the-go treat. 

Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars I Shop The Recipe

18. Chocolate Banana French Toast

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This gooey and rich choco-banana breakfast bake is deliciously satiating and comforting. It also reheats well for leftovers.

Recipe: Chocolate Banana French Toast I Shop The Recipe

19. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins

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Back to the winning combo of apples and cinnamon, these oatmeal muffins are a lightly sweetened breakfast treat that you can top with absolutely anything you prefer. Tip: Add extra milk or oil to make the muffins fluffier. 

Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins I Shop The Recipe

20. Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Frozen Yogurt

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This treat is a great afternoon snack that cools you down and helps pick up your energy.  If you don’t have plain or Greek yogurt, swap with coconut yogurt. 

Recipe: Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Frozen Yogurt I Shop The Recipe

21. Oatmeal Muffins

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These simple, classic oatmeal muffins are a great option for anyone who likes to jazz up their breakfast treats with fruits and nuts of your choice.

 Recipe: Oatmeal Muffins I Shop The Recipe

22. Blueberry Crisp

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This is one for all the fruit lovers, with a burst of tangy flavors from blueberries, the creamy texture of Greek yogurt, and the crunchiness of nuts. You can also try the same recipe with other fruits, like peaches, apple, or cherries.

Recipe: Blueberry Crisp I Shop The Recipe

23. Pineapple Carrot Cake Breakfast Bread

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This filling and moist breakfast bread has a base of whole wheat flour and is a delicate balance of sweet and savory. It can be topped with vanilla, brown sugar, or raisins for some extra sweetness.

Recipe: Pineapple Carrot Cake Breakfast Bread I Shop The Recipe

24. PB&J Banana Split

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Two of any kiddo's dream sweet treats in one comforting breakfast, this creamy and filling PB&J banana split is filling and oozing with the nostalgic flavor of home. 

Recipe: PB&J Banana Split I Shop The Recipe

25. 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cups

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Get your sweet-salty fix with this easy, three-ingredient, no-bake treat that’s the perfect choice for when you need a pick-me-up during the day. Plus, it has none of the filler of the store-bought variety.

Recipe: 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cups I Shop The Recipe

What's your favorite protein-rich dessert? Share in the comments.

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